These days in increasing number of people spend considerable periods away from their homes -- whether it be due to working away, spending time in a second home or for any number of other reasons. In addition properties can often be left vacant when the times after the owner dies - or prior to sale. If you are responsible for, or own, a property that will probably be left unoccupied for a lengthy period, make sure you check home insurance policy. Many insurance policies have clauses invalidating insurance cover if a property remains occupied for a certain period -- which can be as low as 30 days.
Usually insurers are happy to agree an extension of cover, when asked, although sometimes they might request an additional premium or alternatively for compliance with a specific request e.g. that you turn the water off at the mains. However if the property is likely to remain occupied for long period of time, sometimes putting house contents into storage can be cheaper than the substantial additional premium required by the insurer.
So if you do have a vacant property -- make sure you check it's covered by your insurance.
Tim Bishop is Senior Partner of Andover Solicitors Bonallack and Bishop - who provide a full range of legal services in Andover - ranging from conveyancing to compensation claims